NOUN: the uncertainty or fluctuation, especially when caused byinability to make a choice or by a simultaneous desire tosay or do two opposite or conflicting things.

vestige

NOUN: a mark, trace, or visible evidence of something that is nolonger present or in existence: A few columns were the lastvestiges of a Greek temple.

modicum

NOUN: a moderate or small amount: He hasn't even a modicum of commonsense.

surrealism

NOUN: a style of art and literature developed principally in the 20thcentury, stressing the subconscious or nonrational significance ofimagery arrived at by automatism or the exploitation of chanceeffects, unexpected juxtapositions, etc.

stoic

adjective: of or pertaining to the school of philosophy founded byZeno, who taught that people should be free from passion,unmoved by joy or grief, and submit without complaint tounavoidable necessity.

pragmatic

adjective: of or pertaining to a practical point of view or practicalconsiderations.

condescending

adjective: showing or implying a usually patronizing descent from dignity orsuperiority: They resented the older neighbors' condescending cordiality.

adjective: having regard to utility or usefulness rather than beauty,ornamentation, etc.

glean

VERB: to learn, discover, or find out, usually little by little orslowly.

disparage

VERB: to speak of or treat slightingly; depreciate; belittle: Do notdisparage good manners.

scrim

NOUN: Theater . a piece of such fabric used as a drop, border, orthe like, for creating the illusion of a solid wall or backdropunder certain lighting conditions or creating asemitransparent curtain when lit from behind.

penitant

adjective: feeling or expressing sorrow for sin or wrongdoing anddisposed to atonement and amendment; repentant; contrite.